Hyundai has introduced today during a special event in South Korea their 1.6-liter GDI engine tailored to upcoming hybrid models along with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Hyundai has introduced today during a special event in South Korea their 1.6-liter GDI engine tailored to upcoming hybrid models along with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

We’ve been sharing a great deal of spy shots lately with Hyundai’s Prius competitor and now we finally have some confirmed technical specifications to provide as the model will be powered by a dedicated four-cylinder, 1.6-liter GDI naturally aspirated gasoline engine. The motor produces 105 PS (77 kW) and 147 Nm (108 lb-ft) of torque and will serve as foundation for other hybrid models set to be launched in the future.

The combustion engine has a thermal efficiency of 40% which matches that of the 1.8-liter VVT-i unit installed in the newest Prius. This was possible by implementing the Atkinson cycle and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) technology while the long stroke specification also helps boost efficiency. The oil flow is simplified by the intake oil control valve (OCV) integrated with the continuous variable valve timing (CVVT) and since the cylinder block heats up quickly, there are now fewer engine frictions.

The dedicated 1.6 GDI will make its market debut at the beginning of 2016 and it will be Hyundai’s first ever engine to use a combination of the Atkinson cycle, EGR and a long stroke specification.

Another reveal made today by Hyundai refers to their eight-speed automatic transmission which aims to bring a significant 7.3% improvement compared to their existing six-speed ‘box. It will be used on front-wheel drive models with Lambda, Theta turbo GDI, and R family engines and promises to offer better acceleration performance in the low gear range along with higher fuel economy and lower noise, vibration, harshness (NVH) levels. Even though it packs two additional gears, the new ‘box is actually 3.5 kg (7.7 lbs) lighter than the six-speed and will ensure a smoother ride for models in the large and luxury car segments.